Traffic lights

If you're wanting to enjoy views like this in the coming months there are certain things you need to know. Travel is not going to be like it was, but we need to get it started somehow after months of being on pause.

Later this week, the big reveal should happen. We're all waiting to find out which countries will be on the green, amber and red traffic light lists which will hopefully open up travel from 17 May.  What many people don't realise, and this is important,  is that the UK traffic light system only tells us where we may be able to travel to avoid quarantine once back in the UK.  Places like Portugal, Iceland, Israel, Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, Madeira, Malta, Canary Islands will likely be on the green list.  What it doesn't tell us is what the entry requirements will be like in the destination that we want to travel to. It's vital that you know whether you need to take a PCR test, or if you have to complete forms before you leave for your chosen destination.

Here's the breakdown of what the different colours mean from a UK perspective:

Green: Arrivals will need to take a pre-departure test as well as a PCR test on or before day 2 of their arrival back into the UK but will not need to quarantine on return (unless they receive a positive result) or take any additional tests, halving the cost of tests on their return from holiday

Amber: Arrivals will need to self-isolate at home for a period of 10 days and take a pre-departure test, a PCR test on day 2 and day 8 with the option for Test to Release on day 5 to end self-isolation early

Red: Arrivals will be subject to restrictions currently in place for ‘red list’ countries which includes a 10-day stay in a managed quarantine hotel (£1750 per person), pre-departure testing and PCR testing on day 2 and 8

If a country is on our green list, then holidays will operate. If it falls on the amber list, holidays can still operate, but you need to know that you will need to self-isolate and take more PCR tests. Travel insurance will not pay out if you decide to cancel, so if you have any doubts at all, switch your holiday to a different date.

Red countries are to be avoided, and no tour operator will operate holidays to a country on the red list. 

If all this confuses you, just get in touch with me. There has never been a better time to use a trusted travel professional; someone who can give you advice, and be there for you every step of the way.  You won't ever get this kind of care and attention by booking online.